Zeolite Structure & Function Simulator

Zeolite Microporous Framework

Aluminosilicate structures: Ion Exchange & Molecular Sieving.

1. Simulation Modes

Mode: Inspect Framework
Drag to rotate the 3D model. Observe the regular cylindrical pore created by the [SiO₄]⁴⁻ and [AlO₄]⁵⁻ tetrahedra. Note the mobile Na⁺ cations inside.

Show Oxygen Bridges Auto-Rotate

2. Chemical Principles

Aluminosilicates: Zeolites are 3D network silicates where some Si⁴⁺ atoms are replaced by Al³⁺.

Framework Charge: Because Al is +3 and Si is +4, each Al substitution creates a net negative charge on the framework. This is balanced by mobile cations like Na⁺, K⁺, or Ca²⁺.

Water Softening: Hydrated zeolites (like Permutit) undergo ion exchange. Hard water ions (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺) are trapped in the pores, releasing harmless Na⁺ ions into the water.

Shape Selectivity: Zeolites have uniform pore sizes (e.g., 260–740 pm). Molecules smaller than the pore can enter and react (catalysis), while larger or branched molecules are excluded.

Legend

Silicon (Si)

Aluminum (Al)

Oxygen (O)

Sodium Ion (Na⁺)

Left Click + Drag to Rotate • Scroll to Zoom

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